About Freeview

Launched in 2008, Freeview is the free digital television service in Australia which presents and promotes Australia’s free-to-air channels and content to all Australians. Freeview encourages Australians to watch free-to-air content across various platforms by promoting its benefits that include more than 25 channels and catch-up services for free. Freeview’s mission is to deliver the free-to-air platform to all Australians where, when and on whatever device they choose.

The upgrade builds on an already highly successful and awarded service. We first launched Freeview Plus in 2014.

What is included in the Freeview Plus upgrade?

The upgrade includes the implementation of world’s best practice interface design which now features image-based browsing and the introduction of the Explore TV function.

Explore TV presents viewers with image-based carousels including personalised recommendations and viewers’ favourites along with live TV, catch up and genre based browsing.

Other Freeview Plus upgrade features include an easy-to-use guide with backwards navigation to catch-up content and a simplified Mini Guide for quick program discovery.

When will the upgrade be available?

The upgrade will be available from 21 June 2017.

What do I have to do to access to upgrade?

Nothing. The update will be delivered over the internet directly to your receiver.

How can I get technical assistance with Freeview Plus?

For technical assistance, please report the issue here and one of our technical team will contact you as soon as possible to assist you with your enquiry.

Can I use Freeview Plus on Chromecast?

No as Freeview Plus is not an app. Freeview Plus is delivered via broadcast and broadband (HbbTV). HbbTV is Hybrid Broadband TV and it’s the platform that Freeview Plus is operating on.

However you can use Freeview FV that is a mobile application and supports Google Chromecast.

What does Freeview FV on Chromecast offer?

Freeview FV now supports Google Chromecast. The new feature means any internet connected TV with built in Chromecast functionality or a Chromecast dongle connected to a TV can deliver one-stop free-to-air TV for live streaming, managed simply through a smartphone or tablet.

What do I need for this? Freeview FV on Chromecast

You will need to download the Freeview FV mobile application to your smart phone or tablet. Freeview FV Chromecast support is available for both iOS and Android devices.

You will also need a TV connected to the internet with either built in Chromecast functionality or the simple addition of a Chromecast dongle.

How does it work? Freeview FV on Chromecast

On the Freeview FV app, select the Chromecast icon on the top right of your screen, there will be a pop up that will appear for you to cast your screen to your internet connected TV.

What can I watch? Freeview FV on Chromecast

With Freeview FV, you can watch free-to-air TV for live streaming and catch up*.

*Chromecast support for catch up services available only on ABC iview, SBS on Demand and 9Now – on iOS and Android. Plus7 available on Android.

How much does it cost? Freeview FV on Chromecast

There is no cost for the Freeview FV app. There is a cost to purchase a Chromecast dongle, if required.

When will the TV Guide issues be resolved?

We have been working on a number of fixes and enhancements to the new TV Guide on the Freeview website which we expect to be rolled out over the next week. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to resolve the issues.

What is FreeviewPlus?

Freeview Plus is a television service delivered via aerial and broadband providing easy navigation, search and discovery of live and catch up TV across the Freeview networks with the simple press of a button.

How do I get Freeview Plus?

You can access Freeview Plus from a Freeview Plus-enabled television receiver, set-top box (STB) or personal video recorder (PVR). You then need to connect your Freeview Plus receiver to an aerial and broadband internet to access Freeview Plus. An ADSL2 or faster broadband connection is recommended.

Is Freeview Plus a free service?

The Freeview Plus service is made available by Freeview Australia for free, however, this service requires a broadband internet connection. It is a metered service, which means the access and use of Freeview Plus will count towards the data limit of your broadband plan.

Does Freeview Plus provide Catch Up TV?

Yes, Freeview Plus provides access to the catch-up TV provided by the Freeview networks. Note that services vary by region. To check to see what services are available in your area, see our postcode search tool here.

Are there any new channels with Freeview Plus?

All free-to-air channels available in your area will be on Freeview Plus. You can check the Freeview Plus website regularly for announcements about any new channels, content and services.

Can I get Freeview Plus in regional areas?

The Freeview Plus service varies by regional market. You can check what services are available in your area here.

Will I have to pay for broadband content to use Freeview Plus?

Yes, normal data download rates as determined by your ISP will be applicable.

What download speed is needed for Freeview Plus?

For a good experience, an ADSL2 broadband connection is recommended. Some services on Freeview Plus use adaptive bit rate which will provide lower quality versions of catch up for viewers with slower broadband connections.

How much data do you need to view a Catch Up program on Freeview Plus?

Data usage will vary depending on the Catch Up program you are watching. For example full quality HD Catch Up programs will use approximately 1.6 GB per hour. SD catch-up programs will use less data at approximately 585 MB per hour.

Is the Freeview Plus service HD or SD?

Catch-up content on Freeview Plus will be available in SD but may also be available in HD as well. To receive HD quality content on Freeview Plus an ADSL2 broadband connection will be required.

Does Freeview Plus have the same Catch-Up programs as on another device?

Yes. The programs that the networks make available for Catch Up on your other device will be available through Freeview Plus. However, Freeview Plus catch up services vary by region so please check here to view available catch up services in your region.

Can I receive the Freeview Plus service through VAST?

Not as yet, but please regularly check the local services section of the website.

Can I receive the Freeview Plus service through Foxtel IQ, Fetch TV, Apple TV or Telstra TV?

Freeview Plus is not currently integrated with any of these services or devices. Please check our website regularly for updates.

How is Freeview Plus different to a Smart TV app?

Freeview Plus is not an App. Freeview Plus is delivered via broadcast and broadband which means you can check out the Freeview Plus service whilst continuing to watch your favourite free-to-air TV show. Freeview Plus provides access to all available catch-up services across broadcasters in one place, with no need to open multiple apps.

How can I check if I can get the Freeview Plus service on my TV?

First check that you have the aerial and internet connected to your TV. Press the green button on your remote control and you should see a prompt on the top left of the screen. Only Freeview Plus-enabled products have this service. To check if your TV is a Freeview Plus-enabled product click here.

Does FreeviewPlus need frequent updates?

From time-to-time updates may be supplied, but you do not need to do anything as they will be delivered over the internet directly to your receiver.

Can I use my current TV and just buy a Freeview Plus STB or PVR?

Yes. You can connect any Freeview Plus-enabled STB or PVR product to your existing TV and receive all the great features of the service.

Can I use WiFi to receive the Freeview Plus service?

Yes. Freeview Plus is supported over WiFi, however, if you experience video playback issues, such as buffering, a wired ethernet connection is recommended.

How many manufacturers are selling Freeview Plus TV receivers?

A list of manufacturers is available on the website. Please refer to the manufacturers models and products list here. This page will be updated regularly so make sure to check back for any new product updates as more products are being made available at retailers.

Can I pause and rewind live TV on Freeview Plus?

To pause and rewind live TV you need a Freeview Plus Personal Video Recorder.

Can I record live and Catch Up TV on an external hard drive?

Yes, you can record live TV if you have a Freeview Plus enabled PVR. Catch-up TV cannot be recorded.

Freeview Plus uses the clock setting from your receiver. If your time is incorrect please adjust the receiver time settings in your receiver settings menu.

How can I ensure my children only watch programming that I approve of?

You can set your TV parental control feature on your TV receiver. If you’re watching live TV and you download a catch-up program, you will be returned to live TV once the catch-up program has finished. If you have set the parental control feature on your TV, you will avoid returning to content that has been blocked. Please refer to your manufacturer’s manual.

Why aren't all TV programs available on Catch Up?

Due to ownership of digital rights, not all programs on TV are available in catch up.

Can I record Catch Up TV?

No. Only live programs can be recorded if you have a PVR.

Why do the Catch Up TV programs expire?

The expiry period for programs is determined by the terms under which the broadcaster licenses programs from content owners.

Can I watch Catch Up if I’m not in Australia?

No, under the network program licensing agreements, catch-up TV is geo-blocked to Australia, which means that programs cannot be played on Catch Up outside of Australia.

Why can't I access Catch Up on some channels in Freeview Plus?

You’re only permitted to access catch-up content from the broadcasters in your licensed area. When you enter your postcode, catch-up content from non-licensed broadcasters will be blocked in what is known as a spill-over area.

Why isn’t FreeviewPlus and Catch Up working for me?

Freeview Plus Catch Up TV is designed to be received through bandwidth connections of ADSL2 and above. There is also the potential for considerable variance in the delivery of your internet connection. If you’re experiencing buffering issues, please check against these variables:

- Rates of internet traffic

- Proximity to telephone junctions/substations (for ADSL connections)

- Simultaneous use of a modem/hub (eg: multiple processes and computers using the same base connection)

If you continue to have issues, please contact your ISP provider.

I have broadband, why am I still having problems viewing video through Freeview Plus?

Freeview Plus catch-up TV is designed to be received through bandwidth connections of ADSL2 and above. There is also the potential for considerable variance in the delivery of your internet connection. If you’re experiencing buffering issues, please check against these variables:

Rates of internet traffic

Proximity to telephone junctions/substations (for ADSL connections)

Simultaneous use of a modem/hub (eg: multiple processes and computers using the same base connection)

If you continue to have issues, please contact your ISP provider.

Why am I having problems watching catch up on Freeview Plus with a home wireless network?

Freeview Plus catch-up TV is designed to be received through bandwidth connections of ADSL2 and above. There is also the potential for considerable variances in the delivery of your internet connection. If you’re experiencing buffering issues, please check against these variables:

Rates of internet traffic

Proximity to telephone junctions/substations (for ADSL connections)

Simultaneous use of a modem/hub (eg: multiple processes and computers using the same base connection)

If you continue to have issues, please contact your ISP provider.

Freeview Plus is slow to load, what could be wrong?

It’s likely your broadband connection has failed. Try power cycling your network router. If this does not work, your broadband speed may be too slow. Please contact your ISP to check your broadband speed or for internet service outages in your area.

How do I fix a frozen screen in Freeview Plus?

The receiver web browser has frozen. Try changing channels to see if this makes a difference. If that doesn’t work, turn the TV off and on again, and start using Freeview Plus as normal. If this problem persists, please provide the relevant information in the checklist here.

How do I activate Freeview Plus on my certified Sony TV?

You will need to run a software update to activate the Freeview Plus service. Once the software update is complete you will need to turn on the interactive services. Steps are as follows:

Software Update:1. Connect the TV to the internet and check connection is active2. Select home on remote control3. Select customer support from drop down menu4. Scroll down drop down menu and select software update 5. Select yes to software update 6. If no newer version is detected the update has already occurred.

Turn On Interactive Services:1. To activate Freeview Plus, press Home>Digital Setup>Interactive Application Setup>Interactive Application and set it to “On”2. Now simply ensure that the TV is connected to an antennae and a broadband connection. Enter any major channel such as Ten, Seven, SBS or ABC. Upon entering a channel, a prompt for Freeview Plus should appear at the top left of the screen, hit the Green button to enter the FreeviewPlus EPG and the Yellow button afterwards to access the main Freeview Plus menu3. Alternatively, you can also hit the red button to enter the channel provider’s Catch Up TV Menu

How do I activate Freeview Plus on my certified LG TV?

You will need to run a software update to activate the Freeview Plus service. Once the software update is complete you will need to turn on the interactive services. Steps are as follows:

1. Connect the TV to the internet and check connection is active

2. Go to the settings menu (usually this is done by pressing the house button on the wand remote then clicking on the gear in the top right).

3. Navigate to General -> About This TV (bottom of the list) -> then scroll up and click on check for update. The TV will then prompt the user to perform an upgrade. It takes about 10 minutes to upgrade.

4. When the upgrade has finished turn off the TV then turn it on again.

5. Open the settings menu back up again and go to Quick -> Programmes -> and change the HbbTV setting to “On”

Where can I get assistance with my AerialBox T2100 STB or T2200 PVR?

For technical assistance with the AerialBox T2100 set top box or the T2200 PVR, please contact AerialBox at support@aerialbox.com.au or phone 1300 789 603. One of their technicians will assist you with your issue.

What is Freeview FV?

Freeview FV is world-first aggregated live streaming app, developed through collaboration by the free-to-air industry. Freeview FV provides access to live streaming and catch-up content from all the free-to-air networks, on the go. You can also browse and search all free-to-air programs, access a full free-to-air TV guide and set favourites and reminders all in the one app.

How does Freeview FV work?

Freeview FV aggregates all available free-to-air live and catch up content, in one mobile app.

How do I get Freeview FV?

You can download Freeview FV on your device through the App Store or Google Play.

When networks do not have digital rights to content such as specific sporting events, they will not be available to stream through Freeview FV. In this instance you will see a message indicating that the program is not currently available. In some instances, alternate programming may be provided.

Are all the networks and channels available on Freeview FV?

There are 16 channel of live content from all networks and all catch up content available on Freeview FV. More live channels will be added as they become available.

Do I need an internet connection for Freeview FV?

Yes, you will need to be connected to mobile data or broadband internet to use Freeview FV.

Will Freeview FV be available all over Australia?

Freeview FV will be available anywhere, anytime across Australia.

If a member broadcaster provides regional content, for example ABC, Freeview FV will use geo-location services to deliver the closest available live streaming service to that area.

How do I update my location on the Freeview FV App and why is the TV Guide displaying different program times?

There are two ways to set your location when using the Freeview FV app. If you have enabled “Location Access” then the Freeview FV app will automatically detect your location. If you have disabled “Location Access” then the Freeview FV app will ask you to enter your postcode and will periodically ask you to re-enter your postcode in case you change your location.

The TV Guide in the Freeview FV app reflects the live streaming schedule. Some channels only have one live stream for the whole of Australia which means that some programs will be streamed at AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) and may differ from the time it is broadcasted on your TV.

Does Freeview FV have support for the vision and hearing impaired users?

Freeview is currently reviewing and improving the Freeview FV mobile app’s support for the vision impaired users through assistive voice technology on both iOS and Android devices.

The Freeview FV service provides deep linking to the individual networks’ apps to access live streaming and catch up content. As such Freeview does not have any control over the content including content display and operation. The individual networks’ apps are at different stages of support for the vision and hearing impaired and further information can be found by visiting each of the respective networks app websites.

There is a button on the top right of your iPad to mute sounds. Some applications override the mute function so you can still get sound. The Freeview FV app currently does not override the mute function. We are looking at potentially changing this based on customer feedback. In the meantime, please switch off the mute function in order to get sound whilst watching Freeview FV.

Is Freeview FV free?

Freeview FV is a free app. As Freeview FV requires a connection to a broadband service or mobile data, you will be charged by your ISP provider according to your individual provider contracts. For further information please contact your ISP provider.

How much data will it take to stream 30 minutes of content on Freeview FV?

A 30-minute program on Freeview FV will consume approximately 200MB of data.

Can the video quality be adjusted on Freeview FV?

You will be able to select from a number of different video streaming qualities, allowing you to manage data usage on your device.

Will I need to have all the individual network apps installed to use Freeview FV?

For live streaming, you will only need the Freeview FV app, except when a network requires a login. For catch-up TV, you will need to have the corresponding network apps installed i.e. iView.

Why do I need to download the network apps to watch catch up on Freeview FV?

Freeview FV deep links into network apps to find content. This is because these apps are already established in market. We expect that over time there will be upgrades that will provide more features and more seamless experiences.

Why is there a log in required to access some content?

Log in has increasingly become important to some content providers as this allows for a more personalised experience, particularly as you move across devices.

Can I record programs using Freeview FV?

You will not be able to record programs with Freeview FV, however with live streaming and catch-up content conveniently available in one app, Freeview FV provides access to content on the go.

Can you cast or mirror Freeview FV to a TV?

You are able to mirror Freeview FV to Apple TV using Airplay only at this time. Freeview FV Chromecast support is available for both iOS and Android devices.

What version of iOS and Android will support Freeview FV?

Freeview FV will be supported by iOs v8 and above, and Android v4.2 and above.

Can I use the Android mobile app on tablets?

Yes, however the Android mobile app has been designed for mobile phones.

Why does Freeview FV require my location?

Freeview FV requires your location or postcode to ensure that local programs are served to you.

How do I get Freeview?

To receive Freeview, you need to connect your digital receiver (TV, STB or PVR) to an antenna.

If your equipment isn’t working, you need to try one of the following:

Re-tune your digital receiver (i.e. TV, STB, PVR).

Check that your cables are in good condition and connected properly

An indoor antenna may need to be replaced with an external antenna to get a reliable digital signal

Check the external antenna (may require the help of a local antenna installer)

In most cases a new antenna isn’t needed, but if the problem still persists the older antenna may need replacing. Check with a local antenna installer.

What Freeview channels are available in my area?

The MySwitch website details the channel frequencies for each region in Australia. The MySwitch website will also tell you transmitter information relevant to your area and what channels you should be receiving. Please visit MySwitch then enter your address. The channel frequencies will appear under ‘Technical Information’ for your specific region.

Each individual broadcaster makes its own decision about retransmitting its services via Pay TV. Check with your Pay TV provider about the availability of these channels.

Do I need to retune my television to receive new Freeview channels?

New channels are launched on Freeview from time to time. The TV broadcasters also implement system upgrades to their frequencies. So it pays to retune your digital box every couple of months to make sure you are up to date. Some digital boxes automatically retune but most have to be retuned manually. The process is straightforward but varies slightly between boxes from different manufacturers. For more information on how to retune please visit here .

How do I get 9HD & 9Life in Northern NSW?

On the 1st of March NBN introduced 2 new services to Northern New South Wales. They are 9HD and 9Life. These are in addition to the current NBN, 9GEM, 9GO and eXtra services. Please click here for more information.

How do I solve reception issues?

Freeview is not a vehicle for resolving reception issues. You can call an antenna installer to check current equipment, tuning and orientation, and to investigate signal strength in the area and any other possible factors which might contribute to poor television reception. The installer may be able to advise on modifications to the current antenna system to improve reception, if required. Local digital reception quality can also be affected by trees, geography, buildings and other obstructions near a residence. You can find the best antenna and accessories for your area by visiting the Match Master website.

Furthermore, you can visit the Government’s MySwitch website which is designed to provide information about digital TV in your area. This includes your digital TV coverage and channels, links to your nearest Australian Government endorsed antenna installers and more.

Do rural and regional areas receive the same channels as metropolitan areas?

Individual broadcasters are responsible for the rollout of channels to regional areas. Content and programming vary according to geographical area based on the ownership of commercial TV licenses in particular markets. So, for example, most of Sydney does not receive PRIME7, WIN and Southern Cross Television, while regional markets do not receive SEVEN, NINE and TEN.

However the Government’s Viewer Access Satellite Service (VAST) provides Freeview digital television to eligible viewers in regional ‘blackspot’ areas. That is, all free-to-air digital television services, including the original three commercial (SEVEN, NINE and TEN) and two national channels (ABC and SBS), as well as digital services.

For more information on this service, please visit the My Vast website.

I have very poor digital TV reception, what can be done about it?

There are a number of factors that might lead to poor reception of digital television services. These may include the following:

Weather conditions, which can cause digital reception to break up or ‘pixelate’.

Signal obstructions, such as the immediate local terrain, foliage, buildings and trees. You may be living in what is known as a reception “black spot”.

The signal received may be too weak or too strong to allow the HDTV to generate a stable picture.

‘Impulse noise’ interference which may be generated by the use of household items such as domestic appliances, light switches, fridges, hair dryers, air conditioners, computers, wireless network equipment (Wi-Fi) and cordless phones. Moving the devices away from the antenna source can decrease the level of interference.

How far you are from the transmitting tower of your local TV station. The further away you are from the nearest transmission tower, the worse quality reception you will have.

Condition and age of your antenna. The average age for antennae in Australia is about five years old, and the average household only services or upgrades their antenna every 12 years. A lot can happen in those 12 years, the antenna can deteriorate as can the cabling, the local environment can change, new structures can be built in the line of sight and there are ongoing changes happening to the networks – such as the current move towards digital TV.

Changes to your TV or home entertainment set up, e.g. additional TV points or outlets, changing the physical location of your external antenna or adjusting the direction of your external antenna.

Condition of your TV. The age of your TV may be a contributing factor to poor picture quality and signaling.

If you are experiencing poor reception of digital TV, try one of the following:

Re-tune your TV.

Check that your cables and connection points running between your television or set-top box and the wall socket are in good condition and connected properly. RG-6 coaxial-shielded cables will block out interference and screw-in F connectors will ensure connectivity.

Check with your neighbours to see if they too are having problems – compare setups, direction of antenna, cabling etc.

If you use an indoor antenna, you may need to replace it with an external antenna to get a reliable digital signal.

Check your external antenna. You may need the help of your local antenna installer. In most cases, a new antenna isn’t needed, but if the problem still persists, your older aerial may need replacing. Check with your local antenna installer or you can find the best antenna and accessories for your area by visiting the Match Master

A list of Government and Freeview-Endorsed Antenna installers is available at the My Switch website.

How do I know if I live in a 'black spot'?

Please visit the Government’s MySwitch website to find out if you live in a blackspot area. If so, you may need to access free-to-air television via the Government’s satellite service which provides Freeview to viewers in regional blackspot areas. Click here for more information.

How can I get further information on television reception?

If you are having problems with the reception and transmission of ABC services, please contact the ABC Reception Advice Line on 1300 13 9994 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm EDT). Alternatively, you can send an enquiry through their website at http://abc.net.au/reception/contact.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has published information about digital television reception that can be downloaded from the ACMA website.

Why have a satellite service and what channels are available?

The Australian Government has implemented a satellite service that gives viewers living in regional and remote ‘blackspot’ areas of Australia access to the same number of free-to-air digital television channels that are available to those living in the cities. This includes ABC1, ABC2, ABC3, ABC News 24, SBS , SBS VICELAND, SBS HD, SEVEN, 7TWO, 7mate, NINE,NINE HD, GO!, GEM, TEN, TEN HD, ONE and ELEVEN. This service is called Viewer Access Satellite Television (VAST).

In addition, the VAST service provides regional viewers with access to the local news currently broadcast in their TV licence area via a dedicated local news channel.

I am experiencing a loss of sound on my digital receiver. What should I do?

Turn your digital TV, set-top box or personal video recorder (PVR) off at the main switch for 5 minutes, then switch it back on and perform a channel reason. If you continue to experience a loss of sound, you should contact the manufacturer of your digital receiver.

When does the Freeview MHEG EPG service cease?

Freeview advises that the Freeview MHEG Electronic Program Guide (EPG) service will cease operating from Friday 24 November 2017. This action only affects the Freeview MHEG EPG service. It will not affect the availability of any other EPG which you can currently access on your receiver. The cessation of the Freeview MHEG EPG service was first announced on 24thNovember, 2014 via an extensive newspaper campaign.

The cessation of the Freeview MHEG EPG service will not impact our Freeview Plus or Freeview FV service.

For a full list of makes and models which are affected by this action, click here.

How do I make a complaint about a channel or content?

Freeview does not control the content, programming, coverage or number of channels offered by the free-to-air networks. The networks are responsible for the information and programming of their shows. If you would like to make a complaint, leave feedback or make a suggestion, you will need to contact networks directly.

The Advertising Standards Bureau (ASB) manages the complaint resolution for any breaches of the Codes and initiatives as administered by the ASB. If you feel that a TV advertisement is in breach of such codes or initiatives please contact the ASB here.

How do I turn on subtitles or closed caption on my FreeviewPlus to have accessibility viewing?

As long as you have the CC settings turned on within your TV’s settings, then whichever program the networks have assigned CC to, should automatically show up on your screen.

Please note that Freeview does not control which programs have CC, the TV networks do.